Why Trauma Acknowledgment Is Long Overdue in Our Society

The global discourse around trauma has often been marred by superficial understanding and systemic neglect. This article aims to highlight the root causes of why trauma is frequently undervalued and mismanaged, and explores the societal responsibility that must be embraced to provide effective support to those who have experienced it.

The Propaganda Lobby and Corporate Interests

Behind the scenes, powerful propaganda lobbyists and lawmakers are perpetuating a narrative that downplays the significance of addressing trauma. This is fueled by financial interests from various industries, such as pharmaceuticals, healthcare, and security.

Drug Companies: Pharmaceutical corporations may prefer to keep people in a state of trauma, as this increases their customer base and revenue. They often promote quick fixes and medication, which can lead to further dependency and ineffectiveness.

Healthcare Providers: Doctors and hospitals alike benefit from the continued treatment of trauma survivors. When individuals are healed, it can result in job loss, reduced patient volumes, and decreased revenue for these institutions.

Trauma's Role in Emotional Disorders

Traumatic experiences serve as a foundation for most emotional disorders. They can shatter the mental and emotional stability of an individual, leading to chronic anxiety, depression, and other debilitating conditions. Failure to address these injuries can result in a life-altering struggle, making it crucial to understand the impact of trauma.

Social Trauma vs. Environmental Trauma

Trauma is generally categorized into two types: social and environmental. While environmental trauma (like natural disasters) can be more forgiving as it is a force of nature, social trauma is often harder to forgive. This is because it involves purposeful and malicious actions, making it feel more personally validating.

Both forms of trauma are equally detrimental and life-altering. However, social trauma often receives less attention because it is seen as a result of personal fault rather than a broader societal failure. Recognizing and addressing social trauma requires a significant shift in societal attitudes and norms.

The Failure of Current Support Systems

Expecting trauma survivors to merely 'move on' or access therapy once a week is problematic, especially for those with complex trauma. This approach equates to additional emotional torture, making it essential to reframe our understanding of trauma support. Instead of viewing those who have experienced trauma as individuals solely responsible for their healing, we must recognize the collective failure of society.

Creating a village-like environment where trauma survivors can receive long-term, holistic care is imperative. This includes access to therapy, medication, emergency crisis care, medical treatment, and a safe and structured environment to help them reorganize and recover.

Democratic and Legal Issues

The lack of effective laws and protections against those who cause trauma is another critical issue. Current legal frameworks often fall short in holding perpetrators accountable for their actions. For instance, pedophiles and rapists receive significantly reduced sentences, which is not only inadequate but also perpetuates a cycle of trauma.

There is a broader issue with the penal system itself, which is designed more for incapacitation rather than rehabilitation. Short-term imprisonment often fails to address the root causes of criminal behavior, allowing individuals to reoffend and continue causing trauma.

Creating a Comprehensive Trauma Center

To truly provide support to trauma survivors, we need to build comprehensive trauma centers that offer a one-stop solution for all their needs. These centers should include:

Therapy sessions Mental health medication management Emergency and crisis intervention services Medical treatment and physiotherapy Lodging assistance and a micro-hostel for short-term stays Recreational activities and programs

In addition to these essential services, assisted living arrangements near the trauma center could provide a supportive and safe environment. Outreach programs are also crucial in reaching out to communities and addressing the specific needs of those affected by trauma.

Conclusion

Addressing trauma is not just a moral or ethical issue; it is a societal imperative. By acknowledging the underlying issues and taking responsibility for the trauma our society inflicts, we can create a safer, healthier, and more compassionate world. It is time to shift away from individual blame and toward collective action in support of those who have suffered.